Grandstand Concerts Fair Well

An eclectic grandstand lineup at the recent Illinois State Fair in Springfield led to ticket sales topping more than $1 million during the 11-day event.

Organizers spent $865,000 in artist fees, according to the Illinois Procurement Bulletin, to secure performers including Martina McBride, Gretchen Wilson, Sugarland, Daughtry, Joe Walsh, Corbin Bleu and Drake Bell, among others.

Fair manager Amy Bliefnick reportedly attributed the series’ success to the artist lineup, ancillary revenue and affordable ticket prices.

Concert attendance was up about 15 percent from the previous year’s numbers.